Thesis work, 45 credits - Investigating Viscosity in Oligonucleotide Drug Development

Are you interested in exploring cutting-edge therapeutic tools for gene silencing? We are offering an exciting opportunity for a dedicated and inquisitive student to undertake a master's thesis focused on the role of viscosity in the development of oligonucleotide-based therapies. 

About AstraZeneca: 

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centred biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work and empowering employees to push the boundaries of science and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.  

About the Opportunity: 

As a Thesis Worker at AstraZeneca, you’ll find an environment that’s full of unique opportunities and exciting challenges. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your areas of interest whilst equally developing a broad skillset and knowledge base to get the best out of your experience. You’ll be working on meaningful projects to make an impact and deliver real value for our patients and our business. 

Thesis work description:  

Oligonucleotides, short chains of nucleotides, has emerged as a promising therapeutic tool for gene silencing through RNA interference (RNAi), offering targeted treatment for diseases such as cancer, genetic disorders, and viral infections. siRNAs work by degrading complementary mRNA, allowing precise modulation of gene expression.   

This thesis will explore how viscosity influences the formulation stability, delivery efficiency, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy of oligonucleotide drugs. Given its crucial role, optimizing viscosity is essential to ensure that these drugs are effective, easy to administer, and capable of achieving the desired therapeutic outcomes. 

Key Objectives: 

• The primary goal of this project is to determine viscosity profiles for oligonucleotides and investigate how changes in viscosity relate to their biophysical properties. Specifically, the objectives of the project are: Measure viscosity profiles for oligonucleotides under a variety of conditions. 
• Correlate viscosity profiles with key biophysical parameters, including melting temperature, secondary structure, and hybridization kinetics. 
• Provide insight into how high viscosity could either be prevented through the use of viscosity modifying agents OR 
• Provide insight into how high viscosity could be predicted based on sequence using machine learning. 

Essential Requirements: 

• Ongoing master’s studies within relevant scientific discipline e.g. Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmacy or equivalent. 
• Scientific interest in exploratory formulation/characterization work related to complex molecules, delivery systems and new technologies. 

So, what’s next?  

Apply today and take the chance to be part of making a difference, making connections, and gaining the tools and experience to open doors and fulfil your potential. We can´t wait to hear from you!  

We welcome your application as soon as possible, but ahead of the scheduled closing date 27th of April 2025. In the event that we identify suitable candidates ahead of the scheduled closing date, we reserve the right to withdraw the vacancy earlier than published.  

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.